Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) Recipe

If you are craving a cookie that brings a burst of nostalgic sweetness wrapped in a soft, buttery crumb with a charming rosy hue, then Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) might just become your new favorite treat. These delightful cookies combine simple pantry staples with a touch of festive pink color and sparkling sugar, resulting in a tender melt-in-your-mouth experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for celebrations, cozy afternoons, or sharing with loved ones, this recipe captures the heart and soul of a beloved Mexican classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create the magic behind Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas). Each one is straightforward, but every component plays an essential role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and that iconic rosy tint.

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and that familiar tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a delicate fluffiness.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness to enhance the overall flavor.
• Butter-flavored vegetable shortening: Creates a soft, tender texture and buttery taste without being greasy.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and adds a subtle crunch when rolled in sparkling sugar.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients while adding richness and moisture.
• Vanilla extract: Offers a warm, aromatic depth that complements the sugary sweetness.
• Pink food coloring gel: Infuses your cookies with their signature rosy color, making them look irresistible.
• Sparkling decorating sugar: Provides a glistening, crystal-like coating that adds extra texture and festive shine.

How to Make Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas)

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by setting your oven to preheat at 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and come off easily after baking. This little prep step saves time and keeps your cookies looking perfect.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. This step ensures that the leavening agent and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the dough for consistent texture and flavor.

Step 3: Cream Shortening and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter-flavored vegetable shortening and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is crucial for creating the cookies’ tender texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix at this point, as you want to maintain a soft dough that will yield delicate cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture in three parts, mixing gently on low speed. This gradual incorporation helps prevent overworking the dough, which can make cookies tough instead of crumbly and soft.

Step 6: Add Color

Stir in 5 to 6 drops of pink food coloring gel until the color is evenly blended throughout the dough. If needed, knead the dough by hand briefly to ensure every part is a pretty rosy pink, ready to become those charming Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas).

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1½ tablespoons is ideal), scoop out dough balls and roll each into a smooth sphere roughly 2 inches in diameter. This consistent sizing helps the cookies bake evenly.

Step 8: Coat and Flatten

Roll each dough ball in sparkling decorating sugar to give that signature glistening finish. Place the sugared balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Then, gently press down the top of each ball using the flat bottom of a glass or measuring cup until they are about ¼-inch thick.

Step 9: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies one sheet at a time for 11 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set yet not browned, and the tops remain soft with beautifully golden bottoms. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas)

Garnishes

Enhance the presentation by sprinkling a bit more sparkling sugar over the cookies just after baking for extra shimmer. For a festive touch, you can also lightly dust them with powdered sugar or add tiny edible glitter stars, making them perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.

Side Dishes

Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) pair beautifully with warm beverages. A cup of Mexican hot chocolate, rich coffee with cinnamon, or a creamy horchata can effortlessly elevate the treat, making snack time a full-on cozy indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider placing the cookies in pastel-colored gift boxes layered with parchment paper for a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also stack them in clear jars tied with ribbons or arrange them on a pretty platter with fresh flowers for festive occasions—these cookies don’t just taste amazing, they also brighten up any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay tender and flavorful for up to one week, making them a wonderful make-ahead treat for busy days or unexpected guests.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Frozen, they will keep their texture and flavor for up to two months, ready to be enjoyed whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

If you want your Mexican Pink Cookies freshly warmed, simply place them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This will refresh their softness and slightly revive their sparkle without drying them out.

FAQs

What makes Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) different from regular cookies?

These cookies stand out for their soft, crumbly texture, pink color, and sparkling sugar coating that gives them a festive appearance. They are less sweet than typical cookies and have a melt-in-your-mouth quality thanks to the use of vegetable shortening and careful mixing.

Can I substitute butter for vegetable shortening?

While butter can be used, vegetable shortening is preferred because it helps achieve the tender, soft texture that is characteristic of Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas). Butter tends to produce a denser cookie and can alter the delicate crumb.

How important is the pink food coloring?

The pink food coloring is essential for creating the signature look of these cookies, but you can adjust the amount to achieve your preferred shade. Without it, the cookies will still taste delicious but won’t have that classic rosy charm.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, so these cookies are not gluten-free. However, experimenting with gluten-free flour blends may be possible, but results may vary in texture and appearance.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the dough?

Traditional Mexican Pink Cookies (Polvorones Rosas) are classic and simple, but you can always experiment with subtle flavors like almond extract or small additions like finely chopped nuts or dried rose petals to add a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about biting into a Mexican Pink Cookie (Polvorones Rosas)—the perfect balance of buttery softness, delicate sweetness, and that joyful pop of color. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday, a party, or just to brighten your day, these cookies add a sweet sparkle to any occasion. Give this recipe a try and share the love and warmth they bring with friends and family; you might just find yourself hooked on this delightful tradition.

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